Blackburn College Students Isaac and Sami have returned to college after the summer break, to complete their second year T-Level course and work placement at whY-us? Marketing Software.
 
As part of their T-Level Digital Software Development course, that commenced in January 2026, they each undertake 315 hours of practical work placement experience. This enables them to apply their theoretical laboratory learning into a functioning workplace and at the same time gain experience in the day to day activities of a software based company. 

They will continue their placement through to November 2026, before returning to college full time to complete their Occupational Specialism. 

Throughout their first year Isaac and Sami have developed their knowledge and skills across a range of key subject areas at College, including:
 

·         Software Development 

·         Python Programming and Problem Solving 

·         Digital Legislation and Law 
 

On their work placement at whY-us? They have working on: 

·         Understanding the Business Environment through Digital Technologies. 

·         What it is like to be in a digital workplace and understand clients needs. 

·         Developing website wireframes and designs.

·         Developing practical website design skills, balancing functional requirements with effective user interface (UI) and user experience (UX) design. 

·         Developing workflow processes for application in business management and CRM software 
·         Graphic design considerations. 

End of Year Assessments 
In May and June, they completed their end-of-year assessments, which included two written examination papers and an Employer Set Project (ESP), allowing them to apply the knowledge and skills they have developed throughout the year. 
 

Students feedback and experiences so far 

To reflect on their experience so far, we spoke with Sami and Isaac about their first year on the course. We also heard from Richard, their employer at whY-us? and Shamim, the T-Level Work Experience Coordinator at Blackburn College, who shared their thoughts on the students' progress, achievements, and the value of the placement experience. 
 

Isaac’s Experience at whY-us?
“During my time so far at whY-us? I have gained a better understanding of what it is like to be part of a professional team and have developed a range of practical digital skills. I have had the opportunity to use different systems, including customer relationship management (CRM) software and website creation tools such as WordPress. Using these platforms has helped me understand how businesses manage their websites, support their clients and digital processes.

One of the main skills I have developed is problem-solving. Learning new software and working with unfamiliar systems has required me to adapt, find solutions to problems, and learn from any mistakes I make. This has helped improve my confidence when taking on new tasks and has allowed me to become more independent in my work.

While working with WordPress-based websites, I have also gained an introduction to Search Engine Optimisation (SEO). I have learned how SEO helps improve how websites appear in search engine results by making content easier for search engines, AI (Artificial Intelligence) and human users to understand. This has shown me the importance of creating clear, well-organised content and how small changes can have an impact on a website’s performance and client expectations.

Overall, my placement at whY-us? has given me the chance to apply what I have learned during my T-Level course in a real working environment. It has helped me develop my technical skills, communication, and ability to work as part of a team, while giving me valuable experience that I can continue to build on throughout the rest of my course.”
 

Sami’s Experience at whY-us?
“Attending work experience has given me a valuable insight into working life and the importance of balancing different tasks. During my placement, I have worked a variety of activities, including building tables in excel, WordPress and within graphic design for a furniture company and creating graphics for the why us company. 

I am also working with an International Butlers Association, developing both their new website and a new Members Management Portal. The two platforms need to work closely together, with integrated functions and consistent design elements creating a smooth and joined-up user experience across the website and members’ portal. 

These tasks have helped me improve my attention to detail and develop new digital skills such as WordPress development and workflow management.
 

My favorite part of the experience so far has been working on websites. 

I really enjoy adding my own creative touch and seeing how small changes can improve the overall design and user experience. This has made me even more interested in web design and digital content creation.” 
 

Employers Insight​ 

Richard’s Perspective:
“Isaac and Sami have both applied themselves extremely well within the workplace, particularly considering they had no previous experience of working in an office based environment. 

They have been attentive, engaged and proactive in their learning, showing a genuine willingness to understand new tasks and develop their skills. 

Both ask considered and relevant questions and, importantly, are demonstrating that they can take what they have learned and apply it effectively to the work they are completing.” 
 

"The T-Level in Software Development gives students the chance to combine classroom learning with real workplace experience. During their industry placement, students put their skills into practice while building confidence, developing professional behaviours and gaining a better understanding of how the digital industry works.

They can support a range of activities, including software development, testing, IT support, networking, cyber security and digital projects, helping them become more work-ready and preparing them for employment, an apprenticeship or university.

For employers, it's a great opportunity to support the next generation of digital talent while benefiting from fresh ideas and an extra pair of hands. Students can contribute to day-to-day projects, bring enthusiasm and a willingness to learn, and develop skills that are relevant to your business.

Hosting a T-Level student also helps build links with local education providers, raises your organisation's profile in the community and gives you the chance to identify potential future employees before they enter the job market." 
 

Building on Their Placement Experience​ 
 

The students have now returned to whY-us? after the summer break, they will be able to take the knowledge and experience gained from their placement and apply it to new challenges. The skills they have developed using platforms such as WordPress and Elementor, alongside their understanding of website development, will help them approach future tasks with greater confidence.

During the second year of their T-Level Digital Software Development course, students will complete their Occupational Specialism, where they will be required to analyse problems, design and develop digital solutions, gather feedback, and evaluate their work. The practical experience gained at whY-us? will provide valuable insight into how these skills are applied within a real business environment.

By continuing to build on their placement experience, the students will return with a stronger understanding of professional workflows, client requirements, and the importance of creating effective digital solutions — helping them feel more prepared and confident as they progress through the next stage of their course.